What is the primary objective of the Protection of Civilians (PoC) mandate?

The primary objective of the Protection of Civilians (PoC) mandate is to safeguard civilian populations from violence. This mandate is focused on ensuring that civilians, who are often the most vulnerable during conflicts, are protected from harm caused by armed groups and hostilities.

The PoC mandate encompasses various measures aimed at preventing violence against civilians, including enhancing the safety and security of civilian individuals and communities, providing humanitarian assistance, and ensuring respect for international humanitarian law. The core mission is to create an environment where civilians can live without fear of violence, thereby addressing the immediate risks they face in conflict situations.

The other options do not align with the primary focus of the PoC. Promoting economic development and facilitating military training programs may be beneficial for stability in a region, but they do not directly address the immediate need to protect civilians from violence. Similarly, improving diplomatic relations is an important aspect of international relations, yet it does not serve as the central goal of the PoC mandate, which is rooted in the urgency of safeguarding human lives in crisis settings.